Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method of addressing a projection system comprising the steps of: positioning a projection device at a predetermined location and applying a voltage across the projection device; generating a write beam from an electro-optical device, the write beam being operative to interact in a non-linear manner with the projection device on a pixel by pixel basis; encoding image data, by the electro-optical device, at x-y positions within a cross-section of the write beam; generating a read beam from a read beam source, the read beam having a frequency selected to primarily transmit through the projection device; directing the read and write beams to the projection device; wherein the write beam instantaneously encodes the image data on to the read beam via the pixel by pixel, non-linear interaction with the projection device; and wherein the read beam emerges from the projection device as emitted light having the image data encoded thereon.
This invention relates to a projection system for encoding and transmitting image data. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently modulating light beams to display or project images with high precision. The method involves positioning a projection device at a predetermined location and applying a voltage across it. A write beam is generated from an electro-optical device, which interacts non-linearly with the projection device on a pixel-by-pixel basis. The electro-optical device encodes image data at specific x-y positions within the write beam's cross-section. A read beam, with a frequency selected to transmit through the projection device, is also generated. Both beams are directed to the projection device, where the write beam instantaneously encodes the image data onto the read beam through the non-linear interaction. The read beam then emerges from the projection device as emitted light, carrying the encoded image data. This approach enables high-speed, pixel-level modulation of light for applications in display technologies, optical communication, or imaging systems. The system leverages the non-linear interaction between the write and read beams to achieve precise control over the encoded data, improving efficiency and accuracy in light modulation.
2. The method of claim 1 wherein the image data is exclusively optically addressed to the projection device via the write beam.
This invention relates to optical addressing techniques for projection devices, specifically addressing the problem of efficiently and selectively directing image data to a projection system. The method involves using a write beam to exclusively optically address image data to a projection device, ensuring that the data is transmitted without interference from other sources. The write beam serves as the sole means of delivering the image data, eliminating the need for additional electrical or mechanical addressing mechanisms. This approach improves the speed, accuracy, and reliability of image projection by reducing signal degradation and cross-talk. The projection device may include components such as spatial light modulators, microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), or liquid crystal displays (LCDs), which are controlled by the optically addressed data. The write beam can be modulated to encode the image data, which is then projected onto a display surface or screen. This method is particularly useful in high-resolution, high-speed projection systems where precise and rapid data transmission is critical. By relying solely on optical addressing, the system avoids the limitations of traditional electrical addressing, such as latency and signal loss, resulting in a more efficient and robust projection process.
3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising combining the write beam and read beam by an optical element prior to directing the read and write beams to the projection device.
This invention relates to optical systems for combining and directing read and write beams in a projection device. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and precise alignment of multiple optical beams in systems requiring simultaneous read and write operations, such as in optical data storage or display technologies. The invention provides a method for combining a write beam and a read beam using an optical element before directing them to a projection device. The optical element ensures proper alignment and overlap of the beams, optimizing their interaction with the projection device. The projection device then processes the combined beams for their intended application, such as writing data to a storage medium or projecting an image. The method improves beam alignment accuracy, reduces optical losses, and enhances system performance by integrating the beam combination step before projection. This approach is particularly useful in high-precision optical systems where beam alignment and synchronization are critical.
4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the read beam source is a laser.
A system and method for optical data reading involves directing a read beam from a light source toward a storage medium to detect stored data. The read beam source is a laser, which provides a coherent, high-intensity light beam for precise data detection. The storage medium may include a reflective or diffractive surface that modulates the read beam in response to stored data, allowing a detector to capture the modulated light and convert it into an electrical signal. The laser's properties enable high-resolution reading, reducing errors and improving data retrieval speed. The system may also include optical components such as lenses or mirrors to focus or direct the laser beam onto the storage medium. The detector converts the modulated light into an electrical signal, which is then processed to extract the stored data. This method is particularly useful in high-density optical storage systems, such as CDs, DVDs, or Blu-ray discs, where precise and efficient data reading is essential. The use of a laser ensures accurate and reliable data retrieval, even from densely packed storage media.
5. The method of claim 1 wherein, in the pixel by pixel, non-linear interaction between the write beam and the projection device, the write beam, at each pixel position, causes a shift in the value of an index of refraction of the projection device.
This invention relates to optical projection systems, specifically addressing challenges in achieving precise pixel-level control in projection devices. The method involves a non-linear interaction between a write beam and a projection device, where the write beam dynamically adjusts the refractive index of the projection device at each pixel position. This interaction enables high-resolution modulation of light transmission or reflection, improving image quality and contrast. The write beam selectively alters the refractive index properties of the projection device, allowing for fine-tuned control over individual pixels. This technique is particularly useful in applications requiring high-precision light modulation, such as advanced display technologies, optical computing, and high-resolution imaging systems. The method leverages the non-linear response of the projection device to the write beam, ensuring accurate and localized refractive index changes without affecting neighboring pixels. This approach enhances the performance of projection systems by enabling dynamic and adaptive control over light propagation, addressing limitations in conventional projection technologies that rely on static or less precise modulation mechanisms. The invention provides a solution for achieving superior pixel-level accuracy in optical projection, improving overall system efficiency and image fidelity.
6. The method of claim 5 wherein the write beam instantaneously encodes the image data on to the read beam by the read beam being refracted at each pixel position according to the shifted value of the index of refraction of the projection device at that pixel position.
This invention relates to optical data encoding and retrieval systems, specifically methods for dynamically encoding image data onto a read beam using a projection device with adjustable refractive properties. The problem addressed is the need for high-speed, efficient image data encoding without mechanical moving parts, enabling real-time optical processing applications. The method involves a projection device with an array of pixel positions, each capable of dynamically adjusting its index of refraction. A write beam is used to modify the refractive index at each pixel position based on input image data, creating a spatially varying refractive pattern. A read beam is then directed through this modulated projection device, where it is refracted at each pixel position according to the adjusted refractive index. The refraction pattern encodes the image data onto the read beam, which can then be detected and processed downstream. The system eliminates the need for mechanical components by relying solely on refractive index modulation, allowing for rapid, high-resolution encoding. The read beam's refraction at each pixel position directly corresponds to the encoded data, enabling precise and efficient optical data transmission. This approach is particularly useful in applications requiring real-time optical processing, such as high-speed imaging, optical computing, and dynamic holography. The method ensures that the encoded data is instantly available on the read beam, facilitating immediate downstream analysis or display.
7. The method of claim 1 wherein the projection device is a solid state projection device.
A solid-state projection device is used in a system for displaying images or data. The system includes a projection device that emits light to form an image on a display surface. The projection device is a solid-state device, meaning it uses electronic components such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs), lasers, or liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS) microdisplays to generate and modulate light. Unlike traditional lamp-based projectors, solid-state projection devices offer advantages such as longer lifespan, lower power consumption, and improved reliability. The system may also include control circuitry to process input signals and drive the projection device to produce the desired image. The solid-state projection device may be integrated into a compact form factor, making it suitable for portable or embedded applications. The use of solid-state technology reduces maintenance requirements and enhances performance by providing consistent brightness and color accuracy over time. This approach is particularly useful in applications where durability and energy efficiency are critical, such as digital signage, automotive displays, or industrial visualization systems.
8. The method of claim 1 wherein the projection device is a plasma-containing projection device.
A plasma-containing projection device is used to display images or video content by emitting light through a plasma discharge process. This technology addresses the need for high-brightness, high-contrast displays with wide color gamut capabilities, particularly in large-screen applications. The device generates light by exciting a plasma gas, which then emits ultraviolet (UV) radiation that stimulates phosphors to produce visible light. This method provides superior brightness and color accuracy compared to traditional display technologies like LCDs or LEDs, making it suitable for high-end television, digital signage, and professional display systems. The plasma-containing projection device operates by containing a plasma gas within sealed cells, where electrical discharges ionize the gas to create plasma. The UV radiation emitted by the plasma excites red, green, and blue phosphors, which then emit light to form the displayed image. This approach allows for precise control over color reproduction and brightness levels, enhancing visual quality. Additionally, the plasma discharge process enables fast response times, reducing motion blur and improving image clarity, especially in fast-moving scenes. The device may incorporate additional features such as adaptive brightness control, color calibration, and energy-efficient plasma discharge mechanisms to optimize performance. These enhancements ensure that the display maintains high image quality while minimizing power consumption. The plasma-containing projection device is particularly advantageous in environments requiring high-impact visuals, such as retail displays, sports arenas, and home theaters.
9. A projection system comprising: a projection device; a voltage source operative to provide voltage to the projection device; an electro-optical device positioned at a predetermined location relative to the projection device, the electro-optical device being operative to generate a write beam operative to interact in a non-linear manner with the projection device on a pixel by pixel basis, the electro-optical device being further operative to encoding image data at x-y positions within a cross-section of the write beam; a read beam source operative to generate a read beam having a frequency selected to primarily transmit through the projection device; wherein, when the read and write beams are directed to the projection device, the write beam instantaneously encodes the image data on to the read beam via the pixel by pixel, non-linear interaction with the projection device and the read beam emerges from the projection device as emitted light having the image data encoded thereon.
This invention relates to a projection system designed to encode and project image data using a non-linear interaction between a write beam and a projection device. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently encoding image data onto a read beam for projection, leveraging a pixel-by-pixel modulation technique to achieve high-resolution display. The system includes a projection device, a voltage source to power it, and an electro-optical device positioned at a fixed location relative to the projection device. The electro-optical device generates a write beam that interacts non-linearly with the projection device on a pixel-by-pixel basis. This interaction encodes image data at specific x-y positions within the write beam's cross-section. A separate read beam source generates a read beam with a frequency optimized to transmit through the projection device. When both beams are directed to the projection device, the write beam instantaneously encodes the image data onto the read beam through the non-linear interaction. The read beam then emerges from the projection device as emitted light carrying the encoded image data, enabling high-fidelity projection. This approach allows for precise, real-time image encoding and projection, improving display quality and efficiency in applications requiring dynamic visual output.
10. The projection system of claim 9 wherein the image data is exclusively optically addressed to the projection device via the write beam.
A projection system addresses the challenge of efficiently transferring image data to a projection device without electronic addressing. The system includes a spatial light modulator (SLM) with an array of pixels, each pixel having a reflective surface and a photoconductive layer. A write beam, modulated with image data, is directed onto the photoconductive layer to alter its conductivity, thereby controlling the reflective state of each pixel. The modulated pixels then reflect a read beam to form an image. The system ensures that image data is exclusively optically addressed to the projection device via the write beam, eliminating the need for electronic addressing circuits. This approach simplifies the device structure, reduces power consumption, and enhances reliability by minimizing electronic components. The system may also include a controller to manage the write beam modulation and a light source for the read beam. The optical addressing method allows for high-speed data transfer and precise control over pixel states, making it suitable for applications requiring rapid image updates and high-resolution displays.
11. The projection system of claim 9 , further comprising an optical element operative to combine the write beam and read beam prior to directing the read and write beams to the projection device.
The invention relates to projection systems used in optical data storage or display technologies, addressing the challenge of efficiently managing multiple beams for writing and reading data. The system includes a projection device that directs a write beam and a read beam toward a target surface, such as a storage medium or display screen. The write beam modifies the target surface, while the read beam detects changes or retrieves stored information. An optical element is integrated into the system to combine the write and read beams before they reach the projection device. This optical element ensures precise alignment and synchronization of the beams, improving accuracy and efficiency in data processing or display applications. The projection device may include components like mirrors, lenses, or spatial light modulators to control beam direction and focus. The combined beam approach simplifies system design by reducing the need for separate optical paths, enhancing compactness and performance. The invention is particularly useful in high-density data storage, holographic systems, or advanced display technologies where precise beam control is critical.
12. The projection system of claim 9 , wherein the read beam source is a laser.
A projection system is designed to enhance image quality by improving the accuracy and precision of light projection. The system includes a read beam source that directs light onto a spatial light modulator, which modulates the light to form an image. The modulated light is then projected onto a display surface. A key challenge in such systems is ensuring the read beam source provides consistent and high-quality illumination to avoid distortions or artifacts in the projected image. To address this, the read beam source is implemented as a laser. Lasers offer superior coherence, intensity, and beam stability compared to conventional light sources, enabling sharper and more accurate image projection. The laser-based read beam source ensures uniform illumination across the spatial light modulator, reducing variations in brightness and improving overall image fidelity. This configuration is particularly useful in high-resolution projection applications where precision and consistency are critical. The system may also include additional components, such as optical elements to shape or direct the laser beam, and control mechanisms to adjust the laser's output based on environmental or operational conditions. By using a laser as the read beam source, the projection system achieves enhanced performance in terms of image clarity, contrast, and reliability.
13. The projection system of claim 9 wherein, in the pixel by pixel, non-linear interaction between the write beam and the projection device, the write beam, at each pixel position, causes a shift in the value of an index of refraction of the projection device.
This invention relates to a projection system that utilizes a non-linear interaction between a write beam and a projection device to achieve pixel-by-pixel modulation of light. The system addresses the challenge of achieving high-resolution, dynamic control over light projection by leveraging the non-linear optical properties of the projection device. The write beam interacts with the projection device at each pixel position, causing a localized shift in the index of refraction. This shift alters the phase or amplitude of light passing through the projection device, enabling precise spatial modulation. The projection device may be a material or structure with a refractive index that changes in response to the write beam, such as a photonic crystal, liquid crystal layer, or electro-optic material. The write beam can be a laser or other coherent light source, and its intensity or wavelength may be adjusted to control the degree of refractive index change. This approach allows for real-time reconfiguration of the projection device, making it suitable for applications in adaptive optics, holography, or high-speed display systems. The system avoids mechanical moving parts, enabling faster response times and improved reliability compared to traditional projection technologies.
14. The projection system of claim 13 wherein the write beam instantaneously encodes the image data on to the read beam by the read beam being refracted at each pixel position according to the shifted value of the index of refraction of the projection device at that pixel position.
This invention relates to a projection system designed to enhance image display by dynamically modulating a read beam based on encoded image data. The system addresses the challenge of achieving high-speed, high-resolution image projection with minimal latency and power consumption. The core innovation involves a projection device with an adjustable index of refraction at each pixel position, allowing the read beam to be refracted according to the encoded image data. The write beam instantaneously modifies the index of refraction of the projection device at each pixel, creating a spatially varying refractive pattern. When the read beam passes through this modulated region, it is refracted at each pixel position based on the shifted index of refraction, effectively encoding the image data onto the read beam. This approach enables real-time image projection with precise control over pixel intensity and contrast. The system eliminates the need for mechanical or electronic shutters, reducing complexity and improving response times. The projection device may be a spatial light modulator or a similar material with tunable refractive properties, such as a liquid crystal layer or an electro-optic crystal. The write beam can be generated by a laser or other coherent light source, while the read beam is typically a separate light source used to illuminate the projection device. This method ensures high-speed image rendering with minimal distortion, making it suitable for applications in displays, holography, and optical computing.
15. The projection system of claim 9 , wherein the projection system is contained in a vehicle.
A projection system is designed to enhance visibility and safety in low-light or poor visibility conditions, particularly for vehicles. The system projects light onto a surface, such as a road or ground, to create a visible pattern or image that assists drivers or pedestrians. The projection system includes a light source, an optical element to shape or direct the light, and a control unit to adjust the projection based on environmental conditions or user input. The system may also incorporate sensors to detect obstacles, road conditions, or other relevant factors to dynamically modify the projected pattern. In some embodiments, the projection system is integrated into a vehicle, such as an automobile, to provide real-time guidance or warnings directly on the road ahead. The system may project lane markings, directional arrows, or hazard indicators to improve navigation and safety. The vehicle-mounted projection system can be synchronized with the vehicle's navigation or sensor systems to ensure accurate and context-aware projections. This technology aims to reduce accidents and enhance situational awareness for drivers and pedestrians in challenging environments.
16. The projection system of claim 15 wherein the vehicle is selected from the group consisting of: a manned aircraft, an unmanned aircraft, a manned spacecraft, an unmanned spacecraft, a manned rotorcraft, an unmanned rotorcraft, a manned satellite, an unmanned satellite, a rocket, a manned terrestrial vehicle, an unmanned terrestrial vehicle, a manned surface water borne vehicle, an unmanned surface water borne vehicle, a manned sub-surface water borne vehicle, and an unmanned sub-surface water borne vehicle.
This invention relates to a projection system for vehicles, addressing the challenge of providing visual information or displays in various environments where traditional screens may be impractical or ineffective. The system projects images or data onto a surface, such as a windshield, window, or other transparent or semi-transparent barrier, allowing operators or passengers to view critical information without obstructing their view of the external environment. The projection system is designed to function in dynamic conditions, such as those encountered by vehicles in motion, and may include adaptive features to adjust brightness, contrast, or focus based on ambient lighting or movement. The system may also incorporate sensors or tracking mechanisms to ensure accurate alignment of the projected content with the operator's line of sight. The invention is applicable to a wide range of vehicles, including manned and unmanned aircraft, spacecraft, rotorcraft, satellites, rockets, terrestrial vehicles, surface watercraft, and sub-surface watercraft. The projection system enhances situational awareness by overlaying relevant data, such as navigation, sensor readings, or mission-critical information, directly onto the operator's field of view, improving efficiency and safety in various operational scenarios.
17. The projection system of claim 9 wherein the projection device is a solid state projection device.
A projection system is designed to enhance image quality and reduce power consumption in display applications. The system includes a projection device that generates an image, an optical element that directs the image toward a viewing surface, and a control system that adjusts the projection device's output based on environmental or operational conditions. The projection device may be a solid-state device, such as a laser or LED-based projector, which offers advantages in energy efficiency, longevity, and compact size compared to traditional lamp-based projectors. The optical element can include lenses, mirrors, or diffusers to shape and direct the projected light. The control system dynamically adjusts parameters like brightness, contrast, or color balance to optimize image quality under varying conditions, such as ambient light levels or temperature fluctuations. This system is particularly useful in applications requiring high-performance, low-maintenance projection, such as digital signage, automotive displays, or portable projectors. The use of solid-state projection devices further improves reliability and reduces the need for frequent component replacements.
18. The projection system of claim 9 wherein the projection device is a plasma-containing projection device.
A projection system is designed to enhance image quality and reliability in display applications. The system includes a projection device that generates and projects images onto a screen or surface. The projection device contains plasma, which is used to produce light or directly form images through plasma discharge. This plasma-based approach allows for high brightness, wide color gamut, and fast response times, addressing limitations in traditional projection technologies like LCD or DLP, which may suffer from lower brightness, narrower color ranges, or slower refresh rates. The system may also incorporate additional components such as lenses, mirrors, or control circuitry to optimize image focus, alignment, and overall performance. The plasma-containing projection device may operate by ionizing gas within a sealed chamber to create plasma, which emits light when excited by electrical energy. This light is then modulated to form images, either directly or through intermediate optical elements. The system is particularly useful in large-screen displays, digital signage, or high-end projection applications where image quality and reliability are critical. The use of plasma technology enables superior brightness and color accuracy compared to conventional projection methods.
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February 18, 2020
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